The Vista Aug. 26, 2008 by The Vista

www. thevistaonline. corn

THE Aug. 26, 2008 The Student Voice of the Uni\ ersit of Central 01 lahoma Since 1903

Green trains for Paralympics

UCOSA begins fall semester with joint session

Bum-A-Bike program expands Fewer students will struggle this semester with the parking and traffic problems that have plagued UCO the past few years. Central Oklahoma and Flatire Burgers are once again expanding the Bum-a-Bike bicycle rental program, bringing the fleet to a total of 25 bikes.

By Nelson Solomon Co-Editor

Page 3

Tuition and aid changes made Before returning for the fall semester, students may have noticed their wallets took a direct hit as UCO tuition and fees increased by 9.5 percent this summer. Charlie Johnson, executive director of University Relations, said the funds generated by the increase in tuition and fees will help to cover part of the university's mandatory cost increases. Page 6

Features New Vista look coming The Vista is taking more strides to accommodate the needs of its readership. Since 1903, this newspaper has changed with the times, going from typewriters to computers, to new software and now to the Internet. PAGE 2

by Vista photographer Chris Albers

Buddy's pizza chef Dan Damron rotates pizzas at lunch Friday in the renovated cafeteria's fire brick oven.

Buddy's Cafeteria offers a unique look to the campus By Ryan Croft Staff Writer

A new wave of modern dining is sweeping across campus. The largest part of that wave is Buddy's, the newly redesigned on-campus cafeteria. Buddy's, like most campus cafeterias, offers a wide selection of foods at different areas throughout the restaurant. The difference, says Food Services Director of Marketing and Public Relations Jennifer Yeaman, is Buddy's unique look and feel and the upgrade in food quality. "We don't want it to be like a cafeteria. We want it to be warm and comfortable...Mike Payne actually had [a] corporate chef...help him design the menu...it's restaurant food...made essentially to order." Sophomore Dani Murphey had a differing

The Central Oklahoma volleyball team prepared for its season opener with some in trasquad competition Saturday in its annual Bronze and Blue scrimmage. -PAGE 12

see BUDDY'S, page 9

see UCOSA, page 5

Devon Energy donates books to classroom By Melissa Dixon Correspondent

Sophomores lead volleyball team

opinion. "[Buddy's] looks nicer, but I think the food tastes exactly the same," she said. The food-serving parts of the cafeteria are divided up into differently themed areas. The convenience store-style Outtakes Quick Cuisine is located at the entrance and allows students in a hurry to grab food on the go. Fresh Market gives health-conscious students soup and salad options. Baker's Crust offers a cafĂŠ and bakery-style experience and Trattoria has an authentic brickstone oven to give students a variety of Italian foods, according to UCO's Food Services. Perhaps the most unique area is MyPantry, which allows students to prepare home-style meals and snacks either by themselves or with assistance.

The UCO Student Association kicked off fall 2008 with a joint session of both the senate and house bodies on Monday in the Heritage Hall room in the Nigh University Center. StateSen. ClarkJolley(R-Edmond), Rep. Ken Miller (R-Edmond), Jarrett Jobe, a former student senate presidentw and UCO Vice President of Student Affairs Dr. Kathryn Gage highlighted the annual meeting. Student Body President John Bobb-Semple opened the session by introducing his cabinet, a new aspect of UCOSA for this year. Bobb-Semple said this year's agenda represents a "continuation on the foundation we built last year." "This year our organization will be centered and focused on service," he said. "Service that is represented by every single member of this entire student body here at UCO." Bobb-Semple said a single phrase outlines the whole concept: "Simply, I am UCOSA." "I am UCOSA. You are UCOSA. We are UCOSA. The fact is UCOSA is standing by every student voice that we have at this university," he said. "And on this campus, this organization stands behind them 100 percent.

While most students complain about textbook prices, some students receive a break on the fiat day of class. Dr. Mary Teal's Oil and Gas Accounting class arrived Thursday having special guests with a presentation and surprise. Greg Henson, corporate controller, and four UCO graduate employees of Devon Energy gave a presentation over the history and growth of Devon Energy and at the end announced to the class they were providing textbooks for every student enrolled in the class. In June, Devon Energy met with UCO instructors and asked what the best thing they could do for the students. "UCO is unique in that they offer an Oil and Gas Accounting class," Henson said. The class has only been offered at the university for three years. "Students will have a learning curve by taking this class," Henson said.

Devon Energy has been a partner with UCO, by providing internships for students, but based on the company's values wanted to do more. "UCO has been a great partner for Devon," Henson said. Through the intern program, Devon has been recruiting at UCO and has had 11 out of 12 students accept full time job offers with the company after graduation. Devon has 450 accountant employees world wide in which 250-300 are in Oklahoma City. The company that started in 1971 with four employees now has 5,000 and is ranked the second largest Indecent Company in North America and continues to grow. They credit their growth on their ethical values and integrity. They are in the process of building a 54-floor building in downtown OKC to be complete in four years, which will double their space they currently have and will help enhance the by Vista photographer Chanel Henry our city. Henson will be back to visit Dr. Teal's Gregg Henson, Corporate Controller at Devon Energy, class on October 6. surprises students with free textbooks Thursday, August 21, in the Business Building. Devon Energy provided 52 books for the oil and gas accounting class.

Watch it! "The finartforming of a person's character ies in their awn hands." 'Frank

Monday through Thursdays at 5 p.m. on Cox channel 125

Page 2 Tuesday, August 26, 2008

FEATURE Campus Notes

The Vista

Schedule of Events

See Ron Clark at UCO Ron Clark, nationally renowned teacher and New York Times best-selling author, will visit UCO on Oct. 23. Go to http:/ / www.ucok.edu / ronclark to learn more about either of his presentations. The afternoon session is "especially for educators," and the evening session is for "parents, grandparents and anyone who cares about our children and our schools." For questions, contact Karen Youngblood at kyoungblood2@ucok.edu or 974-5599.

Ice Cream Social Set for Aug. 27 The Multicultural Student Services Ice Cream Social will be from 2-4 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 27, in the Office of Multicultural Student Services (Room 211, Nigh University Center). All are invited for ice cream treats and to learn about the programs/services offered that celebrate multiculturalism and diversity. Programs sponsored by Multicultural Student Services include The Edge Up, multicultural pageants, book club discussions, internship fairs, heritage month celebrations, leadership development opportunities and much more.

Odds & Ends/ News of the strange

UCO Jazz Lab & more Up From Under, Alternative Rock, 8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., UCO Jazz Lab, tickets only available at the door, Special Event. Thursday, August 28 TheJazz Company, Traditional & Contemporary Jazz, 8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., UCO Jazz Lab, $7 adults, $5 children 12 and younger. Friday, August 29 Michael Summers Band, Jazz & Variety, 8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., UCO Jazz Lab, $7 adults, $5 children 12 and younger. Saturday, August 30 Shortt Dogg, Blues & Soul, 8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., UCO Jazz Lab, $7 adults, $5 children 12 and younger. Friday, September 5

From the Associated Press

Crime wave: Trees hacked

Academic Alert: Last day to enroll or add Fall 2008 classes in person. Friday, August 22 Academic Alert: Last day to add Fall 2008 classes on the web. Sunday, August 24 Rugby: Rugby vs. OKC Crusaders Men's Club, 11 a.m., Mitch Park in Edmond. Saturday, August 23 Volleyball: Bronze & blue Intrasquad Volleyball Scrimmage, 2 p.m., Hamilton Field House. Saturday, August 23 Soccer: UCO Women's Soccer vs. Oklahoma Christian, 7 p.m., Wantland Stadium. Thursday, August 28

Political race of different kind

Photo of the Week

NEW BRUNSWICK, N.J. -- This presidential race was no contest: John McCain sped to the finish while Barack Obama was reluctant to leave the starting point. But there's no guarantee giant Madagascar hissing cockroaches will predict the real result in November. The roach race Thursday was part of the New Jersey Pest Management Association's annual clinic and trade show. Organizers liken the race's prediction success to that of Punxsutawney Phil on Groundhog Day. Association Executive Director Leonard Douglen says the 2000 roach race came close. The Gore roach won by an antenna, hanging chads not included.

Circle K International meets today in Nigh Center The UCO chapter of Circle K International will meet at 5:30 p.m. today in Room 320C of the Night University Center. All students are invited. Snacks and refreshments will be provided. Circle K International is a service organization associated with Kiwanis International that promotes service, leadership, and fellowship. The UCO chapter meets on the second and last Tuesdays of each month.

Organization takes applications for Jr. Council The Offices of Commuter Student Services and Student Organizations are now accepting applications for the UCO Jr. City Council. The council will serve as an advocate and resource for student needs as it relates to the City of Edmond. The council is comprised of five students with four representing Edmond council members and one representing the mayor. These students will be mentored on the inner workings of municipalities and educated on the processes of city government. They will inform council members of issues concerning/facing students by meeting monthly with student leaders and Community Ambassadors, documenting their concerns and delivering them to the Edmond City Council. To apply or for more information, go to http: / / www.ucok.edu/ucommute.

SAS to raffle three items, including quilt, gift basket Students for an Accessible Society (SAS) will hold a fundraising raffle at the SAS Meet and Greet Cookout from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 5, at Fink Park, located at 699 Park Place in Edmond. Tickets may be purchased for 50 cents each from Disability Support Services (Room 309B, Nigh University Center). SAS will raffle three items: * Buffalo Wild Wings Gift Basket ($75 value); * Starbucks Gift Basket ($75 value); and * Kitty Cat Quilt ($200 value).

These items are currently on display in Disability Support Services.

Emergency Management provides training Emergency Management is providing free National Incident Management System (NIMS) and Incident Command System (ICS) training to the UCO community at the following times at the Edmond Chamber of Commerce conference room:

•Nrms 700 training from 8 a.m.-noon Sept. 3; • ICS 100 training from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Sept. 17; • NIMS 700 training from 1-5 p.m. Oct. 1; and • ICS 700 training from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Oct. 15.

The NIMS 700 course introduces the National Incident Management System and explains its purpose, principles, key components and benefits. The ICS 100 session introduces the Incident Command System (ICS); describes its history, features, principles and organizational structure; and explains the relationship between ICS and NIMS. The ICS 700 session provides higher-level training.

AP Photo

A Georgia man tries to guide his cart out of the way of a Russian tank after the former Soviet Union invaded the nation.

Top Online stories The top four most-viewed articles on thevistaonline.com for the week of August 19-25:

1. Changes made to financial aid According to the CCRAA, Pell Grant award amounts will increase by more than $11 million over the next five years. Award amounts will increase by $490 for the 2008-2009 and the 2009-2010 academic years. --Carrie Cronk

2. UCO one of five best schools to work for The Chronicle of Higher Education released its survey, "2008 Great Colleges to Work For" this month, and UCO finds itself in eight of the top five categories, making it one of the nation's top five "Great Colleges to Work For." --Chase Dearinger

3. Batman is for the life-long fanatics and the non-fanatics

There's a reason director Christopher Nolan's latest installment in the Batman franchise smashed box office records this weekend. Although there were a few weak spots in the film, it was simply a good action flick. --Greg Newby

4. Tea House serves as international home away from home

The Tea House has become a home away for home for international students who frequent the place. It was started in November 2007 by a handful of UCO students as a place to hang out, drink tea and play games. --Abha eli Phoboo

Visit: thevistaonline.com

Vista taking new direction By Jana Davis and Nelson Solomon Editors

The Vista is taking more strides to accommodate the needs of its readership. Since 1903 this newspaper has changed with the times, going from typewriters, to computers, to new software and now to the Internet. The Vista started out as a literary magazine in 1903 and eventually became a full-fledged student newspaper that is published twice a week on Tuesday and Thursdays. Until this semester, the Tuesday and Thursday editions of this newspaper have been similar in format and content. Starting this semester,

the Tuesday edition will continue with its

traditional format, but the Thursday edition will become primarily entertainment-themed for the weekend. The new Thursday edition will be titled, "The Vista Weekend." Some features will include movie reviews and times as well as reviews for various DVDs and games. "We hope this will help to better accommodate our readers," Jana Davis, co-editor said. "It is our intention to bring UCO students the most up-todate news and facts, as well as information you might need for the weekend. We hope that we will be giving students the best of both worlds, hard news and entertainment."

Correspondence studies enrollment numbers at all time high The University of Central Oklahoma's Center for Professional and Distance Education (CPDE) has experienced its highest enrollment numbers in UCO's 91-year history. The high numbers follow a national trend in online and correspondence education enrollment in universities throughout the country, a jump attributed to rising fuel

PHILADELPHIA -- It's another case of big-city crime — and this time the victims are trees. Philadelphia officials say someone has hacked into the trunks of about 10 young trees downtown, and they fear the trees will die. The trees, in the city's Fairmount Park system, were slashed repeatedly last week. Park Commission head Mark Focht (FOHKT) says the damage is vandalism. Police and other city agencies are investigating.

costs and a growing interest in technology. To keep up with the growing interest and need for online and correspondence education, UCO is further developing its number of off-campus courses for its students. Kati Schmidt, program coordinator for UCO's CPDE, said that UCO's distance education department developed 31 online classes

last year, and is currently in the process of developing 30 more for the upcoming year. "This involves a lot of professors who are committed to the training necessary to design, teach and grade online courses. These professors show their understanding of the future classes that students are looking for and the coming trends in education," she said.

Family finds 4-eared feline DOWNERS GROVE, Ill. -- The owners of Yoda — a cat with four ears — could use a couple extra hands to answer their telephones. Ted and Valerie Rock said they've been inundated with television offers and media inquiries since their son posted a photo of their smoke-colored cat on a Web site. That turned the foureared feline from a suburban animal oddity into an instant Internet celebrity. The Rocks, from the Chicago suburb of Downers Grove, have fielded calls from "Good Morning America," "Fox News" and "The Tyra Banks Show." The cat's photo has graced the London Guardian and a British tabloid. The Daily Mail said if Batman had a cat, it would be Yoda. "It's amazing," Ted Rock said. "For the past few days, our phone has just been ringing off the hook." Yoda's extra ears give him a hint of a devilish appearance. The Rocks said they found him in 2006 while watching a Chicago Bears game at a Blue Island bar.

Amtrak train runs out of fuel SAN DIEGO -- It was the little engine that couldn't — because it was thirsty for fuel. A quick train trip down the coast turned into a long haul for more than 80 Amtrak passengers when their train from Los Angeles to San Diego ran out of fuel Sunday night. Amtrak spokesman Cliff Cole said the train sat for about two hours on the northern edge of San Diego before another engine came along to push it the last several miles to the San Diego train station. The train, which had left Los Angeles at 8:30 p.m., didn't get there until 1:15 a.m. Monday, two hours late.

Page 3 Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2008

NEWS

The Vista

■

Bum-A-Bike program expands, bikes leaving quickly By Ryan Croft Staff Writer

Fewer students will struggle this semester with the parking and traffic problems that have plagued UCO the past few years. Central Oklahoma and Flatire Burgers are once again expanding the Bum-a-Bike bicycle rental program, bringing the fleet to a total of 25 bikes. The Bum-a-Bike program started last semester as the brainchild of Flatire General Manager Jacob Kavanaugh and owner Michael Jones. "[Jones] approached me a while back and was trying to think of how we could get more involved with the university," Kavanaugh said. He and Jones thought the idea of a community bike program would boost their community involvement as well as help alleviate the toll of rising gas prices and limited traffic space around the university. Flatire initially purchased 10 singlegear beach cruisers from Al's Bicycles and the Bum-a-Bike program was born. The program was an immediate success and UCO soon sought to expand by Vista photographer Chris Albers the number of available bikes. "Every time we get more bikes in, A bicycle from the Bum-A-Bike program is parked out- they disappear just as quick as the first side the Human Environmental Science building Monday 10 did," former Al's Bicycles employee as students Carlecus Blackwell, left, and Victor Driver do - and UCO's director of the Bum-a-Bike a fist bump in the distance. program Tim Tillman said. "The last

purchase was six bikes...we now have 25 total." Students can rent the bikes at the UCO Department of Transportation building. The rental period is two weeks, but bikes can be immediately rechecked out if the wait list is empty. Tillman explained that a key reason bikes must be returned every two weeks is so UCO employees can perform a free maintenance check and tune-up on them. Students are not just confined to riding the bikes around campus. Tillman said Bum-a-Bike's policy is that, as long as they are cared for and returned every two weeks, the students can take the bikes wherever they like. "If you're buff enough to ride that thing up the Rankin hill and follow the [fork], then by God, you can go there," Tillman said. Some people may question the safety of riding a bike in and around the heavy traffic areas at UCO, but Tillman asserts that only a few minor, non-injury accidents have occurred at all on the bikes. According to Tillman, Bum-a-Bike has only begun its expansion and could possibly extend to Oklahoma Christian University's campus this year. New ideas for UCO's program are also in the works. Kavanaugh talked about the potential of a spring Bum-a-Bike fest: "We're looking to do different events and

fundraisers...to help raise money for more Bum - a - Bikes. It's still in the idea phase...we're just trying to figure out what all we can do." He also reemphasized his belief in the practicality of Bum-a-Bike as a transportation alternative to cars. "You can [ride] across campus a lot faster than you can walk. It's a phenomenal program, especially as broke as most college kids are, not having to pay for gas and parking passes and just getting a free bicycle, on loan, is a great thing." You can rent a Bum - a - Bike for free at the UCO Department of Transportation building. Upon your initial check out, you also receive a lock for the bike and a bicycle safety pamphlet.

"Every time we get more bikes in, they disappear just as quick as the first 10 did. The last purchase was six bikes, now we have 25 total."

--Tim Tillman

Program certifies students to help autistic children By Kaylea Brooks Sports Editor

History is being made in UCO's psychology department, which now offers a program specializing in autism. Sen. Clark Jolley, Rep. Marion Cooksey and UCO president Roger Webb were among those present at the celebration of the landmark program last Wednesday. The program is available to those who are ,completing their master's degree, or already have a higher degree. Dr. Mary Sweet-Darter, UCO

Webb said, when speaking his "There is a need in this area. We decision toabout support the program. "It the program. have got to have training." mattered." Six courses are The program is required for --Sen. Clark Jolley a trailblazer that the program and House, respectively. could influence other that will give "There is a need in this area. universities to begin similar students the title of Board Certified Behavioral Analyst We have got to have training," courses of action. There are 28 students currently enrolled in specializing in autism. The Jolley said. The Oklahoma Senate the certification program. program takes two years to passed Bill 2071, which Webb said he feels the complete. The Oklahoma Autism makes the program possible, students would serve as a Coalition estimates that one in unanimously. The bill is model for Oklahoma and the 150 children will be diagnosed currently making its run nation. Cooksey said she agreed, with autism. The growing through the House. by Vista photographer Chris Albers UCO is the only university adding that she expects great need prompted Jolley and things from all the students. State Sen. Clark Jolley speaks to UCO officials Cooksey to push the bill to offer the program. Wednesday afternoon, with State Rep. Mahon Cooksey "It was important enough," through the Oklahoma Senate to his right. psychology professor, will be teaching

Passp rt to China offering prizes By Alex Gerszewski Correspondent

Interested in learning more about China or three free credit hours of tuition? This year's Passport UCO focuses on China. Students attending at least 10 events before Nov. 25 will be provided the opportunity to win free tuition and numerous other prizes. The first way students can win is by two essay contests. One contest will be for juniors and seniors and the best essay will receive a $200 tuition waiver, said Susan Spencer, coordinator of the Passport UCO Program. According to contest rules, the five-toseven page paper must cover one of the Passport events and how it interested or influenced the student's opinion about the event. The second contest is for freshmen and sophomores. Interested students must watch either Young & Restless in China or China Prep. The five-to-seven page essay must analyze and reflect upon key aspects of Chinese culture. Spencer said the essay contest also serves as an opportunity to learn more about the Chinese culture and what the program will cover over the semester. "I appreciate learning about places that I may never get to go to," said Jeanette Mirll, creative studies junior. "It allows me and other students to become more in tune with the rest of the world around us."

Mir11 said she has participated in the program for the past two years, and she feels the prizes and the Beijing Olympics will help to increase the number of students attending the events. "I think there will be a lot of discussion about current affairs with everything going on in China right now," Mir11 said. This year, the Passport program has teamed up with the Center for Global Competency to provide a variety of prizes including gas cards, gift cards and an iPod. "At every event there is a chance for students to win a great prize," said Marco Rodriguez, coordinator of the Center for Global Competency. "The best part is students only have to show up for a chance to get most of them." "The prizes add another element to the event," said Quinton Gragg, Business sophomore. "Even though I probably won't win any, it's still a good way to get more students involved." Gragg said although he has not attended passport events in the past, he will try to

SAVE A LIFE. ENTER TO WIN UP TO $500 IN GAS! For details, visit:

ZLBPlasmaGasGiveaway.corn ZLB PLASMA

405.521.9204 zitapiasma-COM

attend a few this have their passports stamped for each one, before they are eligible to be entered semester. In addition for the drawing for three free credit hours, to the different Spencer said. . "Sometimes scholarships won't pay for prizes that will be given away, there things like summer school or intersession," will be several Spencer said. "That is why it is good if the guest speakers students get to enter the drawing, these highlighting hours will go for anything." Rodriguez has created a Facebook different events, group called "UCO Passport Program" Rodriguez said. One of the for students who are interested in keeping featured speakers up with the events. Students who join is Henry Lee, the group will receive updates about all head of the upcoming events. According to the contest rules, the Taipei Police Headquarters in deadline for turning in the stamped Taipei, Taiwan. passports will be 5 p.m. Nov. 25, the last Lee is author of day of classes before Thanksgiving break. 30 books and Students can turn their passports in at the time of their final stamp or take them to over 300 articles, Rodriguez said. "We are essentially bringing the country the Center for Global Competency at the of China to UCO without the students University Center. The drawing for the tuition waiver will be held during finals having to travel," Rodriguez said. The events started on Monday with an week. overview of the Passport program and a viewing of a travel documentary "I appreciate learning about about Beijing. The next event will be a screening of Young and Restless n places that I may never get China, which is scheduled for 3:30 to go to. It allows me and p.m. tomorrow in the Pegasus Theater, other students to become located in the Liberal Arts building. "It doesn't cost a thing, all students more in tune with the rest of have to do is show up," Spencer said. the world around us." The passports will be given to students upon their arrival. The students must attend 10 events, and --Jeanette Mirll

Do YOU Have Protection? —_-_-7 - ------_______ NSURANCE

rwM■1■..

716 Northwest 23rd Street Oklahoma City, OK 73103 Fee and donation times may vary. New, donors please bring photo ID, proof of address and Social Security card. Limited time promotion.

301 S. Boulevard Suite 117 405-715-2233

Located Close to Campus ci > co

Easy Payment Options:

We can insure:

Credit Card Payments Accepted Discounts for Full Payments Ask About Payment Plans

- Minimum Auto Coverage

- Permits - Foreign Licenses

2nd 3rd

Page 4 Tuesday, August 26, 2008

OPINION

The Vista

The Vista Comm. Building, Rm. 107 100 N. University Dr. â&#x20AC;˘ Edmond, OK 73034-5209 405-974-5549 â&#x20AC;˘ editorial@thevistaonline.com The Vista is published as a newspaper and public forum by UCO students, semi-weekly during the academic year except exam and holiday periods, and on Thursdays only during summer, at the University of Central Oklahoma. The issue price is free for the first copy and $1 for each additional copy obtained.

MANAGEMENT Jana Davis, Co-Editor Nelson Solomon, Co-Effitor Carrie Cronk, Managing Editor Keith Mooney, /lc/Manager

EDITORIAL Kaylea Brooks, Sports &Prior Chase Deaxinger, Copy Ethtor

Ancliew Knittle, Senior &porter Abha Phoboo, Senior Reporter Opinion columns, editorial cartoons, Lam Hoffert, Senior Reporter reviews and commentaries represent the Greg Newby, Reporter views of the writer or artist and not nec- Ryan Croft Reporter essarily the views of The Vista Editorial Lauren Lubbers, Reporter Jennifer Matthews, Reporter Board, the Department of Mass ComRebecca Shammy, Conespondent munication, UCO or the Board of ReMelissa Dixon, Correspondent gents of Oklahoma Colleges. The Vista Alex Gerszewslci, Correspondent is not an official medium of expression Josh Davis, Designer for the Regents or UCO. Kayleigh Adamek, Designer LETTERS

EDITORIALS

The Vista encourages letters to the editor. Letters should address issues and ideas, not personalities. Letters must be typed, double-spaced, with a maximum of 150 words. and must include the author's printed name, title, major, classification and phone number. Letters are subject to editing for libel, clarity and space, or to eliminate statements of questionable taste. The Vista reserves the right not to publish submitted letters.

PHOTOGRAPHY Chris Albers, Photo Editor Chanel Henry, Photographer Eric Rothwell, Photographer Ashley Smith, Photographer

Shaun Hanks

CARTOONIST Jared Aylor

AD SALES Address letters to: Editor, The Vista, Jared Miller Kellen Hodgeson 100 N. University Dr., Edmond, OK 73034-5209, or deliver in person to the ADVISER editor in the Communications Building, Kelly S. Wray Room 107. Letters can be e-mailed to editorial@thevistaonline.com .

...FROM THE RIGHT While most Americans were busy watching the spectacle of the opening ceremony to the Olympics in Beijing, hostilities began between former Soviet satellite country, Georgia, and Russia, emanating in South Ossetia. For months the public's attention has been held by the economy, which the voters consider their top issue. On that issue, an Aug. 20 New York Times /CBS News Poll shows Sen. Obama has the edge over Sen. McCain with 65 percent of those polled expressing confidence in Obama's plans for the economy and 54 percent expressing confidence in McCain's economic policy plans. The conflict in Georgia has sparked concerns in the region, specifically spawning a deal between the United States and Poland in which a U.S. missile defense base would be placed 115 miles from Russia. Growing tensions in the former-Soviet Union, continued concerns over Iran's nuclear ambitions and the War on Terror might turn the focus of this campaign to the foreign policy debate. That is a debate where John McCain has the upper hand. In the same New York Tirnes/ CBS New Poll John McCain has the confidence of 66 percent of those surveyed about foreign policy, while Barack Obama receives 55 percent confidence. The early statements made by Senators Obama and McCain underline their judgment and foresight. The conflict in Georgia highlights Sen. Obama's lack of experience as well as his lack of judgment. While Barack Obama did condemn the violence, he would not acknowledge Russia as the aggressor, stating that "now is the time for Georgia and Russia to show restraint," according to CNN. CNN reported McCain, by contrast, called for Russia to "immediately and unconditionally cease its military operations and withdraw all forces from sovereign Georgian territory." Recent events have shown that McCain's original call was the correct one and Obama's was too sensitive. If the public's focus makes a shift to foreign policy in the fall, Obama will need a good dose of hope.

...TO THE LEFT Less than half of Oklahoma's young people are registered to vote - approximately 43 percent, a number that is 17 percent lower than the national average of 60 percent. Improving on this number will be the first priority for the Young Democrats of this university and of this state leading up to the registration deadline on Oct. 10. Nationally, Democrats lead Republicans 58 percent to 32 percent in party identification among 18-29 year olds. We believe that the more young people registered, the more Democrats added to the electorate, and ultimately the more Democrats elected. Voter registration will count for nothing this election without a strong get-out-the vote program. After the Oct. 10 deadline, Young Democrats of Oklahoma will work in cooperation with the Oklahoma Democratic Party to organize the largest youth get-out-the-vote effort in the organization's history. UCO Young Democrats are currently organizing their resources for the corning year and would welcome any new involvement. If you would like information on meeting times and opportunities to be involved please contact us at youngdemocratsoklahom a@gmai 1.com

CAMPUS QUOTES: "Do Photographed and compiled by Ashley Smith "I haven't heard much about Biden, but then again, I haven't been keeping track. All I know is that you have to pick the lesser of two evils in this election."

Cartoon by Jared Aylor

VIDEO

It's better not to hold a grudge Imagine your son achieving his lifelong goal of winning gold at the Olympics, the world's premiere sporting event. Imagine the joy you would have in celebrating your son's achievement with him. If you're Micheal Phelps right now, all you can really do is imagine as Fred Phelps recently admitted to the New York Post that "he has not had a single conversation with his Olympian son since Michael left for Beijing." Phelps has done for swimming what Tiger Woods has done for golf and Micheal Jordan did for basketball, and the world is celebrating his achieve-

ments with him, all except one person. One of the most important people in his life actually. "He's so busy, I'm sure not even his agent can get a hold of him," Fred told The Post outside his home in the Baltimore suburb of Linthicum Heights, when asked why he had not yet made any attempt to congratulate his record-setting son.

Bowman at age 11. Bowman predicted Phelps would be Olympic-caliber by the time he reached 15, according to www.notablebiographies.com BY NELSON SOLOMON When Bowman told Phelps that he had Olympic potential, the Michael's mom, Debbie, has been seen cheering and twelve-year-old gave up crying from the stands as his other sports, which her son won medal after were soccer, lacrosse, and medal in Beijing, but Fred baseball, in order to bring has had no contact with the all his energy to daily pool practice. He began winOlympian. "I'm very proud of him ning every competitive and all he's done," Fred event he entered. The first said as he aimed to deflect time he lost, however, he attention away from the was so upset that he threw severed relationship. "This down his goggles. Bowman is not about me, it's about warned him about his unsportsmanlike conduct, him." Yes, this is about Phelps and since then Phelps has and his eight gold medals, taken his handful of setbut the man who helped backs in stride. "It's when your body raise him should be a part of is not in the best situation, this truly exciting moment, for when you become an your mind is not in the best Olympic gold medalist, you situation and things are have reached the pinnacle of against you those are the success in the sports world. times that really count and Phelps started swimming really matter you overcome early and was connected and rise to the occasion," with top swim coach Bob Micheal Phelps said in the

The Bottom Line

article. Fred Phelps divorced his high school sweetheart Debbie in 1992 when Michael was 9, the same year doctors diagnosed the swimmer with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, according to the New York Post. Although he didn't hop a plane for Beijing to see his son compete, the elder Phelps said he "watched [Michael] every - night on TV" last week. The 23-year-old Olympian reconciled with his dad right before the 2004 Games, and Fred even flew to Athens, where Michael won six gold medals:' But the relationship quickly soured. I can only hope the elder Phelps willcome to his senses and restore his relationship with his son, for how many fathers can say their son beat his own Olympic swimming record and holds a total of 14 Olympic medals along with seven world records in swimming?

Issues blur as campaigns get underway Every four years, when the presidential election comes around, endless numbers of Americans become armchair political analysts in their own minds. Everyone has an opinion about the candidates. Everyone has an opinion about the issues, or what they think the issues are. Over the last five weeks of the summer, I was inundated with endless opinions about both candidates and the issues. What was surprising is that the "issues" as they were being described to me were Obama doesn't like to wear lapel pins of the American flag, or he's a Muslim (which is not the case) and as such represents the interests of the terrorists. Of course, Sen. McCain wasn't left untouched either as numerous individuals expressed to me they felt the only way McCain would know how to win a war is from a prisoner of war camp.

As Eye See It BY CARRIE CRONK

Many of these individuals were simply regurgitating what they had heard from numerous talk radio hosts, some of which are more shock jock than journalists. These shows are purely editorial and many do not notify listeners of this fact. Or maybe it's just the listeners prefer to ignore that fact, then proceed to make generalized claims that the entirety of the media is biased to one side or the other, usually the opposite of the individual's own mindset. Much of the role of the media in our country is to provide the facts, not opin-

ion or bias, FACTS. Truth is subjective so only the reader can decide what the truth is from the facts presented. The media is simply providing the public with the information they need and pointing them in a direction where they can find more information on their own about those facts. It is the responsibility and duty of the individual to learn about the issues so that they will be better able to make an educated decision at the polls, where their one voice can be heard perhaps most effectively. So here are a few of the facts as I see it. Both Sen. McCain and Sen. Obama have Web sites for their campaign. Both have posted their plans for the issues on said Web sites. The congressional voting records are subject to the Freedom of Information Act, which means it is open to the public for viewing. The congressional Web sites also have a

search engine in which you can search for legislation proposed by a particular senator or representative. Please, educate yourself about the issues, the candidates and their abilities to perform the duties of the office they are running for. And please make sure your sources of information are credible. Don't let your only reason for voting for a particular candidate be that the other guy chose not to accessorize clothes for a debate, or because he was a prisoner of war and claims that means he knows how to win a war. When individuals vote on such superficial, childish and ridiculous non-issues, do they really retain the right to complain when the candidate they voted for runs our country in a manner that only benefits the rich? It's your vote. It's your voice. Make it an educated voice as well.

think that Joe Biden was a good VP choice for Obama?" g "Biden is a good choice because of his long time experience."

"No. At one point Biden stat-

ed that Obama wasn't a good Presidential candidate. It would be hard to have someone working under me win didn't have faith in me."

"I do not support Obama and what he stands for; therefore, I do not support his running mate."

Jesse Barrow

Dili Sharifzoda

Don Head

Victoria Baldizan

Finance and Insurance, senior

Finance, sophomore

Biology - freshman

Biology, freshman

Page 5 Tuesday Aug. 26, 2008

NEWS

The Vista

UCOSA Continued from page 1

Bobb-Semple said UCOSA aims to bring the voices around campus together, and did it in part by assembling the cabinet for this year. "These are individuals specializing from sections of our campus that we've never been to really successfully reach before," he said. "And that is how we're going to ensure that every voice is heard." Some goals for this year include campus safety. He pointed out there have been increases in campus safety over the summer with increased lighting on campus and the commitment that every new building and parking lot has state-of-the-art security features. "Our administration is behind finding a comprehensive way to make sure that students are safe on the Bauman and Ayers intersection, whether the 're takin • a left

Jobe discussed the efforts by himself and other leaders including Dale Archer to figure out how to bring a senate to UCO. "Through a lot of work and a lot of word wrangling, because Dale Archer is such a detail-oriented person, we finally came up with a constitution that supported both, he said. He said he wears the distinction of being the first President Pro Tempore of the Senate in UCOSA with pride. "The training I received then, the interaction I received in student government, really prepared me to make the move to graduate school and now to return to work for President Webb," he said. He mentioned that Webb sent his regards, as Webb was losing his voice and had a class on Tuesday. "He says congratulations to your success, congratulations to your future, and I want to thank you guys for your commitment," Jobe said. He said one the main lessons he learned was that "you can't please everybody, but ou :otta do the best ou can. You :otta go "

by Vista photographer Chris Albers

Student body president John Bobb-Semple speaks at a joint-session student government meeting Monday, along with Speaker of the House Malory Craft, far left, Vice President Kaela Davis, left, President Pro Tempore Daniel Stockton, right, and Vice President of Student Affairs Kathryn Gage. do what you feel is best." or a right," - he said. "Leadership is about tough decisions, Bobb-Semple discussed one goal mentioned during his campaign, to find a and about making a commitment that way to embrace the city of Edmond and for includes making unpopular decisions," he said. Edmond to embrace the students of UCO. Sen. Clark Jolley (R-Edmond) described "Well, the UCOmmute office have already stepped in that direction. UCOSA his beginnings in student government at and the UCOmmute have joined together Oklahoma Baptist University. He had served as president pro tempore to work the UCO Junior City Council," he of,,the student senate and then as chief said. Bobb-Semple said during his campaign of staff, .40T the giudIerit government that he aims to get 3,000 students registered president. ' He said the issues Bobb-Semple brought to vote. "Well, I wasn't crazy because we're up were similar to the ones being discussed at Oklahoma Baptist when he was in already in the process of doing that." UCOSA is partnering with the College office. Jolley said he was used to an Republicans, the Young Democrats, Success Central, Housing, the Volunteer administration that said no to everything, and Service Learning Center, the political but pointed that with President Webb at the science and history departments and Pi helm, UCOSA doesn't have that problem. "You have somebody that cares deeply Sigma Alpha to make this a reality. "He noted the fact that Maya Enista, CEO about students, and has a great track record of mobilize.org, who organized the entire at Northeastern State University and here "Rock the Vote" program for the West at UCO of making sure that great leaders Coast, will be training UCOSA members are developed," he said. He pointed out that student government during Constitution Week. "UCO is doing its part to make sure that has a lot to do with state government. "It's so important for you to communicate students are civically engaged, following what President [Roger) Webb has told us with your elected officials at the state level, the things that you feel would need to do," he said. Bobb-Semple said UCOSA. will be attention at your university and also in "working to address some very core and your personal life," he said. "UCO is within my Senate district, and critical issues as a university" including smoking on campus and the gun bill that I am proud that I can say that I've got was proposed but failed in the Oklahoma the third largest university in the state of Oklahoma right here in the boundaries of legislature last year. "This year, we're going to make sure that Senate District 41," he said. UCOSA Senate President Pro Tempore we are going to talk to as many students as an organization as possible, committing Daniel Stockton said one of the important ourselves that 'hen we do make a aspects of being in a student government recommendation as an organization, it will association is "being knowledgeable [about legislation] so we can be knowledgeable to be the actual. student voice," he said. Bobb-Semple talked about the effort by others." He said the Senate will change the way his predecessor Jason Hines to extend the student organizations are added into hours of the library. "We saw last year, during finals week the organization and be more fluid with that they were extended, trial periods to budgeting. Rep. Ken Miller (R-Edmond), a professor see if we could actually justify spending at Oklahoma Christian University, said he the money to have that fiappen," he said. "However, we weren't successful in thinks it is important that, "regardless of m aking thatpermanent. Ouradministra tion your worldview or ideology, you should has committed to saying that 'as soon as .get involved on campus." "Regardless of the minor differences we we possibly can find it within the budget may have, I hope our end goal is the same, to extend those hours, we will," he said. He also stressed an effort for the to leave the world you live in, better off," administration to understand just how he said. "You want to get involved and you want the student fees that are paid each year are allocated, so important goals can be to make a contribution and you want to accomplish a similar task, that is to leave reached for the university. "So when we're accountable to our the world better off than when we arrived," student body, we can make sure that we he added. We may disagree on the particulars, but know exactly what we're talking about," at the end of the day it's about making this he said. He also highlighted the recent food place better and leaving a mark," he said. He credited Sen. Barack Obama, despite service changes on campus and appreciated the efforts of Chart-wells in improving their his personal Republican Party affiliation, for exciting college-age students to get services. After noting the new buildings being involved in the election. Speaker of the House Malory Craft constructed around campus, he expressed credited the students at the meeting with his pride in UCO. "UCO is growing. You go to the very striving for higher ground in their college best university in the state of Oklahoma careers. "If you're here today, you're here to be and you need to be dog-gone well proud part of something bigger than yourself," of it," he said. Jarrett Jobe, a former UCOSA Senate she said. Dr. Kathryn Gage commented on the President Pro Tempore and now assistant to President Roger Webb, then addressed uniqueness of UCOSA, in regard to being positioned to be a "resonant voice of the the body. "I applaud the growth and the immense student body." She discussed how student organizations amount of people here," Jobe said in his opening remarks. "Back in my day, there and colleges are all represented through was about 25 people in this room, and all the various channels of UCOSA. we had was a House of Representatives."'

It's back to school time. Get everything you need to conquer your classes with Cox High Speed Internet. + ALWAYS-ON CONNECTION + AMAZING FAST DOWNLOAD SPEEDS + FREE McAFEE SECURITY SUITE

BACK TO SCHOOL SPECIAL COX High Speed Internet-

FOR 15 MONTHS

CALL TODAY 600 7503 -

Offer expires 09/30/08. Available to new residential high speed Internet customers in Cox Oklahoma serviceable areas. Subscription to Cox Digital Telephone required. $19.99/month is limited to monthly service fee for Cox Value service for the first 15 months. Thereafter, the regular rate of $26.95 per month applies. Cox cannot guarantee uninterrupted or error•free high speed Internet service or the speed of your service. Actual speeds vary. Installation fees may apply. Other restrictions may apply. ©2008 CoxCom, Inc., d/b/a Cox Communications Oklahoma City. All rights reserved.

coxoklahoma.com

Page 6 Tuesdday Aug 26, 2008

NEWS

The Vista

Tuition and aid Laipply, dance evolutionist changes made brings performance to stage By Carrie Cronk Managing Editor

Before returning for the fall semester, students may have noticed their wallets took a direct hit as UCO tuition and fees increased by 9.5 percent this summer. Charlie Johnson, executive director of University Relations, said the funds generated by the increase in tuition and fees will help to cover part of the university's mandatory cost increases. "The tuition and fee increase will generate about 3.6 million dollars in new funds to cover part of the nearly 5.6 million in mandatory inflationary costs here at UCO for the coming year," he said. Johnson said the higher costs increases are for things the university has no control over. Budget areas affected include fuel, health care, food and utilities., Recent changes to financial aid may help to soften the blow to many students' bank accounts. Under the Colleg Cost Reduction an Accessibility Act of 2007, as of July 1 Pell Grant award amounts increased by $490, bringing the maximum Pell Grant award to $4,731 for the 08 - 09 academic year. According to the CCRAA, interest rates for subsidized Stafford loans for undergraduate students will be reduced over the next four academic years. However, interest rates for unsubsidized Stafford loans will remain at 6.8 percent. The interest rate for loans made between July 1, 2008 and June 30, 2009 will be reduced to 6 percent from 6.8 percent for loans made prior to July 1. Changes to unsubsidized federal Stafford loans also went into effect on July 1, under HR5715, the Ensuring Continued Access to Student Loans Act of 2008. Assistant Director of Technical Services, Becky Garrett said, "[HR5715] increased the amount of unsubsidized loans ... an undergraduate student can borrow by $2,000 for the year," she said. "It also increased the aggregate amount a student can borrow." Financial Aid Director Sheila McGill said 3,975 UCO students received Pell Grants and 5,225 students received Stafford loans during the 2007-2008 academic year. First time in-state resident incoming freshmen enrolled On a full-time basis (12 credit hours per semester) are eligible to participate in the guaranteed tuition program. Students who

choose to enroll in the program are guaranteed tuition at a set rate for a four year period, unless they request to be removed from the program prior to the end of the four years. Students whose enrollment drops below full-time, or who do not enroll for one or more semesters will be removed from the program. Students who must withdraw from classes due to military service will be allowed to re-enter the program with their tuition rate set at the amount it was before their deployment. Drew Duke, executive director of Student Financial Services said the 08 - 09 academic year guaranteed tuition rate is 15 percent higher than the unguaranteed general tuition rate. Duke further explained that while tuition can be locked at the guaranteed rate, student fees are not subject to being locked at a set rate. "Fees will be the same

Inspirational Comedian Judson Laipply, known for his YouTube video with more than 96 million views, "Evolution of Dance," graced the stage in UCO'S Grand Ballroom late last Wednesday evening where 400 students were present. Laipply started out the night with standup comedy jokes that left the audience laughing. His views on relationships, childhood memories and what the best ways to freak someone out were some of the student's favorites. Further on in the night, Laipply turned up the tunes and started his notorious Evolution of Dance and even added four new songs to his routine that _acted as a preview for his upcoming Evolution of Dance 2. "EOD2 should be released by the beginning of January and includes news songs such as Shakira's 'Hip's Don't Lie', Fergie's 'London Bridges', Soulja Boy's 'Crank Dat', and Ok Go's 'Here it Goes Again.' So get excited",

Laipply said. "There will be 18 new songs in the my next routine." Laipply said. "Let's just say I'm going to need to do a lot of practicing. The Evolution of Dance 2 should have a new website coming up pretty soon as well so look out for that." Laipply has come a long way since he aired the "Evolution of Dance" on YouTube in early April of 2006. He has been a guest on nationally syndicated talk shows such as Oprah Winfrey laSt November and Ellen Degeneres two years ago. "Being a guest on Ellen was awesome because I was a guest on the same show as Tiger Woods. Now that was cool," Laipply chuckled. Laipply has been on a tour with his routine and usually performs at about eighty to one hundred locations each year. "I honestly had no idea that this video would get this big. The first time I recorded the full routine was actually right here in Oklahoma City because I was at a conference with a bunch of college students and they filmed me doing the dance," Laipply said.

Laipply talked about how he grew up in a small town in Ohio and that he currently lives in Cleveland. "It's nice that even though I travel around a lot doing shows, I still get to be home quite often and I get to dictate when and how long I can take off of work. The best part about this entire experience is that my life has not drastically changed. For example: when I am. out in public no one even recognizes me. It is nice to be able to still live a normal life," Laipply said. Kay Robinson, director of campus events and activities, is responsible for making this all happen. Robinson is a personal friend of Liapply, whom she attended graduate school with, and she did everything in her to power to make his performance here at UCO possible.

"I honestly had no idea that this video would get this big."

*0.1418

--Judson Laipply

0 )*O

11/ffir N, texlcir,tasc:-.)/Li 6â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;004

t 06, ,14.14,,os gkFs

each year regardless of the participation in the lock program. Only tuition may be set at a guaranteed rate." According to the UCO Guaranteed Tuition policy, students had to enroll in the program by Aug. 15 for the fall semester. Another CCRAA change which took effect on July 1 is the establishment of the Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education Grant Program. The grant provides award amounts up to $4,000 for undergraduate, post-baccalaureate and graduate students planning to become teachers, and for teachers working on credential programs. "In exchange for the grant, candidates must agree to serve as a full-time teacher at certain schools and within certain fields for at least four academic years within eight years after completing the course of study for which the candidate received a grant, according to the CCRAA. "If the candidate fails or refuses to carry out his or her teaching obligation, the amounts of the TEACH Grants received are treated as an unsubsidized Direct Loan and must be repaid with interest."

Man reported to have gun, 6 Edmond schools in lockdown , EDMOND, Okla. (AP)S. plirtond schools were A modified lockdown cAuse of reports of a man gun near a high Chool. Police spokeswoman Glynda Chu says officers were called just before 9 a.m. Monday and searched the area but found no one. Memorial High School, Central Middle School, Clyde Howell

By Lauren Lubbers Staff Writer

Prekindergarten Center and Orvis Risner, Will and Clegern Rogers elementary schools were in precautionary lockdown for about an hour. Associate Superintendent Brenda Lyons says in a written statement that the lockdown was a precaution and classes were not interrupted.

AFTER COMPLETING 5 QUALIFYING PURCHASES WITH YOUR CHASE DEBIT CARD

TO OPE% AN ACCOUNT AND ENTER SWEEPSTAKES, SAT YOUR PARTICIPATING' CAMPUS'BRANCH TODAY.

A CHASE COLLEGE CHECKING ACCOUNT INCLUDES:

FREE Online Banking

FREE Chase debit

and Online Bill Pay

card with Zero Liability protection*

FREE Chase Mobile s"'

FREE access to

over 9,000 Chase ATMs

PLUS, NO MONTHLY SERVICE FEE FOR UP TO 5 YEARS: GETTING MORE MATTERS. â&#x20AC;˘ CHASE WHAT MATTERS'

Chase "Back to School" Sweepstakes Abbreviated Rules NO PURCHASE OR BANK TRANSACTION NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. NEITHER WILL INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. OPEN ONLY TO CURRENT LEGAL U.S. RESIDENTS WHO ARE 18 YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER AND WHO ARE ENROLLED, AS OF 9/1/08, IN A PUBLIC OR PRIVATE COLLEGE, UNIVERSITY OR TECHNICAL SCHOOL/COLLEGE. From 8/15/08 through 9/15/08, have a Chase representative enter you online at a participating Chase location: Edmond East-300S Bryant Ave, Edmond South-18 E 1511i St, and Edmond West-2307 W Edmond Rd. Limit one (1) entry per person, household or address, regardless of location. See a Chase representative for Official Rules. All entries become the exclusive property of JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. ("Sponsor") and will not be acknowledged or returned. GRAND PRIZES (30): Each Grand Prize winner will receive a $100 Chase Gift Card. Odds of winning depend on the number of eligible entries received at the listed location(s). On or about 9/22/08, thirty (30) potential Grand Prize winners will be randomly selected from among all valid entries received. Void where prohibited. SPONSOR: JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., 1111 Polaris Parkway, Columbus, OH, 43240.

$25 Offer Details 1.Offer expires 9/30/08. Present flyer to a banker when opening a Chase College Checking account For Chase College Checking accounts a minimum opening deposit of $25 is required. To qualify for the $25 bonus, you must make five qualifying purchases (PIN or signature) with your Chase Debit Card within 60 calendar days of account opening. The $25 bonus will be automatically deposited into your account within four to six weeks of the final qualifying purchase. ATM transactions are not considered a purchase and will not count toward the five purchases. Offer not available on account conversions or in combination with any other offer. Limit one consumer checking account-related reward/premium per customer, per calendar year. Checking account must remain open for six months or the bonus will be debited from the account at closing. Account is subject to approval. Cash bonus may be considered interest reportable on IRS Form 1099-INT, 2. College student must be 17-24 years old to open a Chase College Checking account, and must provide college name and expected graduation date at account opening. No monthly service fee on Chase College Checking until after the expected graduation date (up to five years). *Chase reimburses you for any unauthorized debit card transactions made at stores, ATMs, on the phone or online when reported promptly. t There is no charge from Chase, however standard text messaging and other rates from your wireless provider still apply. 4)2008 JPMorgan Chase Bank, NA Member FDIC. NOTE TO BANKER: To award bonus, use this E-coupon code - 3335 2928 8151 5944 83111011Seenrelail lii1ivneC AZaltAXioN t

w00%

:l :47 AM

Page 7 Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2008

THE ARTS

The Vista

Mitchell Hall improving sound and safety features By Stephani Tobin

Correspondent â&#x20AC;˘

Mitchell Hall, the 82-year-old theater that showcases musicals, plays and concerts at UCO, will be closed for several months for renovations. Mitchell Hall Theatre Director Jim Poe said the main purpose for these renovations is to bring the theater up to code. "This is the safety project," said Poe. "It's going to make the facility a lot safer for students, faculty and staff." Construction crews will be replacing the existing ceiling with one that will allow a more acoustic sound to resonate through the theatre, Poe said. New steel catwalks will also be installed, which will be supported from wires attached to the improved ceiling and will make walking through the attic area safer. Other renovations include new fire sprinkler systems throughout the theater, house lights and additional handicap accessible seating. The College of Arts, Media and Design productions will be scheduled at up to nine different venues around UCO, Edmond and Oklahoma City while the theater is closed. Chris Domanski, head of theater design at Mitchell Hall, said he hopes the increase in venues will help to expand the audience base for the CAMD productions. "The hope is to reach a new audience; we [are going] to them instead of them coming to us," Domanski said. He expects the renovations to be completed by next fall. The Pegasus Theater in the Liberal Arts building will host three of the four plays that the college produces. The fourth will be held in the Grand Ballroom of the Nigh University Center. Smaller format musicals will be held at the UCO Jazz Lab. The UCO Kaleidoscope Dancers will perform at Bishop McGuiness High School in March 2009. Broadway Tonight will be performing "Carousel", featuring Shirley Jones and 2007 Miss America and former UCO student Lauren Nelson, on Oct. 25 and 26, at the Rose State College Performing Arts Theater. Student productions may become more challenging with the renovation of Mitchell Hall, observed Susan Parks, Media and Design marketing manager of the College of Arts, Media and Design. "Commuting for students can be difficult," she said, "but it's important that the students and faculty support performing arts on campus." Mitchell hall has experienced past renovations, including the installation of cushioned seating and carpet, sound system upgrades and central heat and air conditioning. In 1997, about 5,000-square feet were added to the theater. "We're very pleased to go through with this project," said Poe. "It's long overdue, and we are grateful for everyone involved."

by Vista photographer Ashley Smith

Renovations are being made in the theater to update the sound and safety features. University productions will be held throughout Edmond, Oklahoma City, and UCO during this time.

"Construction crews will be replacing the existing ceiling with one that will allow a more acoustic sound to resonate through the theatre"

INTRODUCING

MOBILE BANKING FROM FIRST FIDELITY BANK With Mobile Banking from First Fidelity, you can check balances, transfer funds, and pay bills â&#x20AC;&#x201D; all from your cell phone. Anytime, anywhere. Visit www.first-fidelity.com to see what all the buzz is about. by Vista photographer Ashley Smiai

Old vs. New, Mitchell Hall's original crown molding shows through construction scaffolding. Renovations are being made in the theater to update the sound and safety features. University productions will be held throughout Edmond, Oklahoma City, and UCO during this time.

22 Metro Locations

Call 4)6.2222 www.first-fidelity,com Member FDIC

"New steel catwalks will also be installed, which will be supported from wires attached to the improved ceiling and will make walking through the attic area safer."

Page 8 Tuesday, August 26,2008

INTERNATIONAL

The Vista

UCO student to compete in Paralympics

Photo Provided

UCO student Katrin Green, who is originally from Germany, at a recent workout in preparation for the Paralympics in Beijing.

No. Katrin Green, a Spanish major at UCO, trained six days a week to get ready for the Paraympics. By Abha Eli Phoboo Staff Writer

She was only five when she lost her left leg in a farm accident in Germany but that didn't stop her from climbing trees or racing. Even then, she was among the fastest kids in her class. Katrin Green, Spanish major at UCO, is now 23 years old and holds the World Championship's #2 rank in 100m, 200m, and 400m track and field events. On August 31, she will go to Beijing to participate in the Paralympics in Beijing, China. Green will represent Germany, her home country, in all three events and has been training six days a week, two hours on

the track, with one hour of weight training every other day, for the last couple of years. "My muscles and bones constantly hurt. My time has been good but you never know what to expect," said Green. She was brought up on a farm, an hour west of Frankfurt, with three brothers, who never treated her as any different. "That was important because I was always one of them. I think for parents to treat their disabled child different they would an able-bodied one is the worst thing they can do," said Green. At the age of 16, a doctor saw Green test her prosthetic leg and told her she ran well. He asked if she wanted to participate in track and field events, and she refused. Soon after, Green was constantly bombarded with brochures, emails and newsletters from a sports club to which the doctor had given her

information. Green finally relented and went to see the club, where she ran in a small competition. ,They asked her to move so she could train. She did. Green's first competition followed not long after. In 2002, she ran in the World Championships in Lilith, France. • "I didn't win anything but it was my first real race and it fired me up to see so many people cheering," said Green. In 2004, she ran in the Paralympics in Athens but surgeries before the games didn't allow her to do well. However, it was on the tracks during warm-ups that she literally ran into Roderick Green, track and field athlete from Team USA. After the Athens games, they kept in touch while Katrin backpacked across Australia with her friend, finally heading to the United States to see Roderick. She was here to visit him for Christmas but

she never went back. They were married on March 5, 2005. "It was a small wedding, we had only five people there. I called up my family in Germany and said, 'Oh, by the way, I got married.' They weren't very happy with it but the whole clan is coming next year and we'll renew our vows," said Green. Roderick Green, her husband, is now also her coach. "He knows me well and my time has improved ever since we started working together," said Green. In the 2006 World Championships, she finished third in the 100m competition, which was her first big medal in a big event. In the World Championships 2007, which took place in Taipei, she finished second in the 100m (13:73 min), 200m (1:05,06 min), and 400m (28:70 min) events, clinching the position in the world ranking. Scott Sabolich Prosthetics and Research is sponsoring her prosthetics, which were specially created. "My life has changed so much, I'm still catching up," said Green. Green has a 4.0 GPA and wants to be a physician's assistant. She is currently working on an independent study since she was refused enrollment in her classes because of the absences incurred due to her trip to Beijing. This has resulted in her loss of scholarship, insurance and on-campus job. "I offered to do extra work, take tests, and give extra presentations. Nobody agreed," said Green, "I will be back in UCO next semester though."

Iraqis show video of girl in suicide vest By AP Writer

In video footage released by Iraqi police, a teenage girl with an explosives vest tightly strapped to her body is seen handcuffed to a metal grid, her head repeatedly falling forward as several policemen huddle around her. After several minutes, the officers lift her flowered robe, remove the white vest hidden underneath and then take her for questioning, videotaping her in the presence of reporters. They prod her to confess to plans to stage a suicide attack, but she denies the allegation. The arrest of the girl, who gave her first name as Rania, heightened concern about a rise in suicide bombings by women in Iraq. The number of female bombers has more than tripled, from eight in 2007 to 29 this year, according to U.S. military officials. That compares with a total of four in 2005 and 2006, according to the military. On Aug. 14, a

woman suicide bomber struck a group of Shiite pilgrims south of Baghdad, killing at least 17 people and wounding dozens of others. Police in Baqouba, where the girl was caught Sunday, said she told them she was fitted with the explosives by female relatives of her husband, whom she married five months ago. One police official alleged that some in the girl's family had links to the al-Qaida in Iraq terror network. In displaying the dazed teenager — who says she was born in 1993, which would make her 14 or 15 — police wanted to deal another blow to the terror network's brutal reputation, officials said. Police wanted to "show the desperate level alQaida has reached, with members of one family driving each other to death," said Ibrahim Bajilan, head of the provincial council in the Diyala province, of which Baqouba is the capital.

Photo by AP

In this photo released by the Iraqi Police on Monday, a girl who police suspected of being a suicide bomber is seen handcuffed to railings in a street in Baqouba, Iraq, on Sunday, Aug. 24, 2008 according to police.

I ntramural Spo Fitness Cen Group Fitness Classo .41 Health Educati Aquati Outdoor Recreati

Page 9 Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2008

GAMES

The Vista

Crossword Puzzle 45. Short composition for a solo instrument 46. Critical 47. Angry outburst 48. Mine entrance 49. Catch, in a way 50. "Ars amatoria" poet 51. Charged particles 52. "Darn it!" 53. Small cave 54. Appia

>—

e- I

1 4

1 6

I4 9 1 6

8r--11

340-2777

8 7

tfa

11 Hot Dogs on Wednesdays

6 71) ei1

I r"-11

re-0

*Italian & Vienna Beef *Gyros *Chili

t if iA

3 el lor,

UCO STUDENTS

GET 15% OFF!

tr4

8 eh?)

bertoO l s cIrnji

GYS

$pqntors of

ll-4

Check out the Thursday, Aug. 28 issue of The Vista for our brand new entertainment themed edition

FUND IRIS AM I SS ANEW ROOK LENTO ST VA L E N T 1NESDAY TIERS ANAPHO Q A SERFD I H R L B A L I A LCAPONE AR I AN DOUBL ES TANDARDS ABBEY CLOSESET MEET ETHER SM I DGEN STEE S NORMA C O MB I NAT I ONLOCK OR IO N NO I R EPEE TERNE TW I T SEED

Down 1. Big laugh 2. fruit 3. Urban blight 4. Embroidery similar to drawnwork 5. Sea anemones, e.g. 6. Various strong liquors dis-

tilled from the fermented sap of toddytpalms 7. Audition tape 8. Fly high 9. Units of weight for preciouststone 10. Similar 11. Canceled 12. Gangster's blade 13. Bit 21. Newsstand 22. "Paradise Lost" character 25. Cockeyed 26. Arm bones 27. Sweet; pleasant 28. Fix 29. Face-to-face exam 30. Celery 31. Ill-gotten gains 32. Bloodless 34. Daughter of Zeus 35. Act of having and controlling property 37. Taketup with the tongue 38. Cubes 43. Dumbfounded 44. Delivers ice

oIco

42. bit 43. Crown 44. Professional killers 45. Australian runner 46. Maple genus 47. Series of operations on data by a computer 54. Largest city of Liechtenstein 55. Egg 56. 2:00 or 3:00 57. Ammonia derivative 58. bread 59. "What's gotten you?" 60. Chipped in 61. "Our Time in " (10,000 Maniacs album) 62. "Check this out!"

0 a-

Across 1. Charge 5. Stationer's stock 9. Art able to 14. Eye 15. Sundae topper, perhaps 16. shirt (colorful garment) 17. Astringent 18. Dalai 19. Inflexible 20. Russian composer of operas and orchestral works 23. Inclines 24. Absorbed, as a cost 25. Recordings of acoustic signals 28. Pencil-and-paper game 30. grecque (cooked in olive oil, lemon juice, wine, and herbs, and served cold) 33. Match game? 34. Bickerer in the "Iliad" 35. Big production 36. Punch 39. A head 40. Biblical shepherd 41. Accustom

Last week's solutions: Aug. 21

1710 E. 2nd St., in Bryant Square

Craving the latest campus news? Check out www.thevistaonline.com

SUDOKU

1 4.,4t

1. 24/7 banking with NetBranch La online banking and Daily Data alc Line, banking by phone.

("*"

Student checking account with j NO monthly service charge, NO minimum balance charge, s"• NO per-item charge and NO 14. 12.1r monthly ATM/CheckCard fee.

!WIMP

jr6a

VISA CheckCard - accepted at

LAIII retailers worldwide!

iirt;ij

ATM transactions at more than 200 locations statewide LAN) including all Oklahoma 7-Eleven I '1Cr". and dW a peens stores. .

STUDENTS HAVE ENOUGH TO WORRY ABOUT... BancFirst

Locations in 47 Oklahoma communities, mayhe even in YOUR town!

9 6

3 3

9 6 9

1 6

16 Oklahoma 6- You:

•

111111111Y S LIIUDDRY

28 East Hurd. St., Edmond 340-1406

Page 10 Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2008

CLASSIFIEDS/SPORTS Continued from page 1 "It's like your coming downstairs into your kitchen," Yeaman said. Unlike the cafeteria that preceded it, Buddy's prepares all its dishes in the same area it is served, in front of the customers. The food stations are also situated differently, giving the restaurant less of the mass production assembly linefeel traditionally associated with school cafeterias. Buddy's is a part of a new trend in university eateries called Pulse on Dining. The idea behind POD is based on professional research into the new generation of college students and what kind of food options and dining experiences appeal to them, according to Yeaman. She says the research seems to have paid off. "It's been really well received. We've had tons of people coming in...one day last week we did...a week's worth of cash sales in one day." Buddy's menu is also fairly customizable and, for the most part, made to order. Yeaman gave an example of a wheat and gluten-free student who ordered a meal to her specific dietary requirements, a service that most traditional cafeterias would be unable to perform. "It's great. I think the kids get a really firstclass operation," Director of Residential Dining Mike Payne said. The restaurant-style eatery officially opened on Saturday, August 9th and is located in the same building as the old cafeteria. Buddy's is open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and offers pre-prepared snacks, a salad bar and various small meals throughout the day, with full buffets and meals served three times a day. Mealtimes are: Breakfast from 7:20 a.m. till 9 a.m., lunch from 11:30 a.m. till 1:30 p.m. and dinner from 4:50p.m. till 6:30 p.m.

DEADLINES: All clasEmployment DOWNTOWN OFFICE - Seeks part-time receptionist. Please email resumes to haley@ cunninghamandmears. com or fax to 232-1675. WORK W/SPECIAL NEEDS CHILD - in Edmond. 2 days a week & weekends. $12/hr. 330-7849. NEED SOME DOUGH? - Big Sky Bread Co. is looking for an energetic and reliable person to help customers, slice bread and clean. Please apply at 6606 N. Western Ave. PART-TIME JOB AVAILABLE - for friendly, dependable student 3 to 5 afternoons per week, plus 10am-2pm Sat in mail and parcel store. Apply in person at Edmond Parcels Plus, 820 W Danforth next to Hobby Lobby. Phone 341-3907.

ATTN: ACCOUNTING STUDENTS! - CPA office has an entry-level bookkeeping position for a student with excellent computer skills. Will train the right applicant. Great hours. Please contact 577-6767 between 9am - 5pm. BUSY REAL ESTATE OFFICE - Afternoons weekends. Office work. DT Edmond. Call 414-7776 or email resume to expressrealty@sbcglobal.net

BABYSITTER NEEDED - $9 per hour. 3 kids. Fun loving girl who's great with children. Good driving record. REFS REQUIRED. 608-0180.

PT CASHIER / STOCKER Needed for AM shifts. Heavy lifting required. Must be 21. Please apply in person @ Edmond Wine Shop. 1520 S. Boulevard.

PT LINE COOKS NEEDED AT OUTBACK - AM & PM shifts available. Apply in person, 3600 S Broadway, Edmond. DOG BATHER - Tuesdays and Thursdays. 8am to approx. 1 pm. Blue Ribbon Pet Boutique, 356 S. Kelly. (2nd & Kelly.) PART-TIME OPTOMETRIC ASSISTANT NEEDED - Office located near UCO. No experience necessary. Fax resume to 341-6533.

(„

TRINITY HOLY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL EDMOND - Is accepting applications for afterschool care coordinator. Mon. - Fri. 2:30 - 6. Contact Debbie @ 844-4000.

LIQUOR STORE - Needs parttime help. Must be 21. Close to campus. Call 348-2101

WINDOW CLEANER NEEDED - Must have refs., good driving record , be familiar with window types and must be able to interact with customers. Call 216-3180

TUXEDO JUNCTION @ QUAIL SPRINGS MALL - needs PT sales associate trainee. Work around school schedule. If you are outgoing w/ some work experience, call Matt @ 751-1745 to make appt.

PRIVATE GOLF CLUB - Looking for friendly, energetic staff to join our team. Bagroom, golfers grill, beverage cart, event staff. Located just a few minutes from UCO. 771-5800, or stop by 10909 Clubhouse Rd., Edmond.

GYMNASTICS COACHES NEEDED www.oklahomagoldgym.com

Faculty members receive awards The University of Central Oklahoma recently awarded 12 professors with Faculty Merit Awards and 19 other faculty and staff members with achievement awards as a part of the university's annual back to school convocation. The awards recognize faculty and staff for their outstanding contributions to the UCO community. Faculty members receiving the Merit Awards were selected based on their demonstrated excellence in one of the three categories including teaching, scholarly/ creative activity or service. Each winner received a cash award in conjunction with the title. Award funds will be used to purchase educational materials and otherwise further engage in the area of the award. The Faculty Merit Credit Program was created in 1994 and is funded by interest derived from donations made to UCO. This year's award winners include: Faculty Merit Awards Dr. Wei Chen Scholarly/Creative $1,500.00 Dr. Tess Remy-Schumacher Service $1,500.00 Dr. Kevin Hayes Scholarly/Creative $1,500.00 Ms. Rukmini Ravikumar Scholarly/ Creative $1,000.00 Dr. Wayne Stein Teaching $1,000.00 Dr. David Hartmann Service $800.00 Dr. Charlotte Simmons Scholarly/ Creative $800.00 Ms. Amy Johnson Teaching $800.00 Dr. Mark Silcox Scholarly/Creative $800.00 Modeling the Way Awards Dr. Ted Honea, Ph.D. Dr. Mary Sweet-Darter Mt Jerry Legere Mt Mark Rodolf Vanderford Teaching Awards Dr. Debbie Barker Dr. Lee Tyner Dr. F.N. Albahadily Dr. Sherri Massey Daisy Bristow Vanderford Research Award Dr. Melville Vaughan Vanderford Engagement Award Dr. Theresa Vaughan Dr. Susan Spencer Dordick Award Dr. Charles Pursifull Neely Award Dr. Robert Terrell Dr. Glee Bertram President's Initiative Award Ms. Rukmini Ravikumar Leadership and Civic Engagement Award - Citizen's Bank Dr. David Hartmann The 3C's Award Stephanie Driver Exceptional Performance Award Julie Byer

LUNCH & AFTERNOON WAITSTAFF NEEDED - Tips avg $16-20/hr. Flexible hours. Close to UCO! Apply in person. 216 S. Santa Fe. Ron's Hamburgers.

Deadlines/Pricing sifieds MUST be submitted by noon Tuesday for the Thursday publication and Friday noon for the Tuesday publication. PRICES: Classified ads cost $7/day for the first 20 words and $.10/ word thereafter. PAYMENT IS DUE WHEN AD IS PLACED. Classified Display ads (one column boxed ads on classified page) have same deadlines and prices as regular display ads. Call 974-5549 or 974-5918 for info

The Vista

FRONT DESK CLERK Afternoon shift, 3pm - 11pm. Apply in person. Cornfort Inn, 1-35 & 122nd St. RETAIL SALES/ WOMEN'S AND CONTEMPORARY Fashion marketing internships available. Heidi @ McCalls. 348-2400. HELP WANTED EDMOND LAW OFFICE Seeking part-time legal assistant. Must be highly organized, exceedingly competent, responsible and diligent. Drop off resume at Massey Law Offices located at 922 South Boulevard, Suite 200. Interviews will be scheduled. Submit resume by Thursday, August 28. PT NANNY POSITION - Needed for 6 y/o boy. Hrs: 3:30pm - 6pm, Mon. - Fri. Pref. experienced student. Must have references, reliable transportation. Great family offering great pay for the right individual. Call Stacy 408-3734. RESEARCH VOLUNTEERS NEEDED - Researchers at OU Health Sciences Center need healthy volunteers ages 18 to 30 who have a parent with or without a history of an alcohol or drug problem. Qualified participants will be compensated for their time. Call (405) 552-4303 or (405) 456-4303 to learn more about the study and to see if you qualify. The University of Oklahoma is an equal opportunity institution.

TUTOR NEEDED - Edmond family looking for tutor for 13/ yo son, 8th grade. All subject areas. 359-7405, 630-0402.

Rentals/Housing CLEAN, QUIET APARTMENT W/UTILITIES PROVIDED for person to do farm and ranch chores. 7 miles west of Edmond. Must have experience with cattle, horses and yard work. Need a person for all year around. Call 341-8392 if no answer leave name and number. PARK DILLON APARTMENTS Now preleasing for Summer & Fall. Free cable T.V., phone & highspeed internet. Call 285-5900 MALE ROOMMATE NEEDED - non-smoker, good morals, $400/mo. Spacious and new; get own bathroom. All biils paid. 405-301-7988.

For Sale FOR SALE - 1995 TOYOTA T100 PICKUP. Extended cab, 4 wheel drive, good condition. $4600. Call 361-0331. 7

AM" of&Wif/.•mii",,,,

HELP WANTED - PT Pharmacy Clerk. Afternoons, some weekends. Inquire at Clinic Pharmacy, 120 N. Bryant. Edmond. Close to UCO. NEED PART-TIME CAREGIVER - for 19/yo boy. He has autism and is very high functioning. Need help in mornings and some evenings. Must have own transportation. Please call Margo Price at 850-7603. CHIROPRACTIC ASST Needed for part-time position M-TH (9am to noon.) Must have pleasant personality and interact well with patients. Computer and typing skills required. Call 752-8819 to schedule interview. ATTN ELEMENTARY EDJ EARLY CHILDHOOD MAJORS AND/OR DEGREED TEACHERS: Edmond pre-school hiring. Flexible hours. Call 205-4299. SERVER POSITION - Availape @ Pearl's Lakeside. Apply within. 748-6113 CUSTOMER SERVICE HELP - M-F 4:45AM - 9AM. Occasional weekend shift. Apply in person. Edmond YMCA. SHOGUN'S STEAK HOUSE - Hiring for wait staff, bussers, dish washers, host, bartender. Apply in person at Northpark Mall (NW 122nd & N. May) after 5:30pm. 749-0120 SENIOR SERVICES OF OKLAHOMA - Is looking for students to fill part time positions. Several 9am - 1pm and 1:30 pm - 5:30pm shifts are available for Mon-Fri. We pay $10 per hour for energetic phone work educating senior citizens on healthcare issues. No experience is needed we will train. Business is located at 1417 NW 150th St. in Edmond. Call 879-1888 to set up an interview. Ask for Hannah McMahan TEACHER Needed immediately for Edmond Daycare. FT/PT. Experience preferred, competitive wages. Apply in person @ 24 NW 146th. Call Camelot C.D.0 @ 749-2262

Services EDMOND , LANGUAGE INSTITUTE Conveniently located on the UCO campus, offers English as a second language classes for international students/individuals. NOW FEATURING a specially designed program with: Strong emphasis in listening & speaking, Highly interactive classes, Comprehensive TOEFL program. Enjoy small classes and the campus facilities. Contact us at (405) 341-2125 or www.

thelanguagecompany.com INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS! Need to pass the TOEFL, an 1-20 for a friend or a 12-week certificate? English Language Center can help you! Call us at (405) 348-7602, visit our website www.elcok.com or come meet us in person at 1015-C Waterwood Pkwy, next to the UCO University Plaza on 2nd Street. DO YOU WANT MORE FOR YOUR CHILD THAN DAYCARE WHILE YOU ARE WORKING OR ATTENDING SCHOOL? Churchill Pre-School Academy's curriculum prepares your child for school. Established in 1986. Enrolling now for summer and fall. No enrollment fees! Located at 724 W. 15th St. Open 7:30a.m. - 6p.m., all year. Please call 341-4314

S11.00/hr NOW HIRING:

Customer Service, Car Wash a Oil Change Attendants - Openings available at 2 locatlent

2220 S. Broadway, Edmond 844-8084 Quail Springs/N. Penn. OKC 808-0570

F shall la IN

Great Advancement a Management OpportunMes Available!

=Find what you're looking for. THEVISTA

CLASSIFIEDS

To place an ad, call (405)974-5918 or email tic tennedia@yaltoo.com today!

Page 11 Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2008

SPORTS Golden Phelps eager for his own bed The Vista

BEIJING (AP) _ Michael Phelps kept every swimsuit, every cap, every pair of goggles he wore during nine magical days at the Water Cube. Every memory will be savored, too, from goofing off with his U.S. teammates to bowing his head not one, not two, but eight times to receive a gold medal at the Beijing Games. "There are moments I'll never forget," he said. Neither will the whole world. Phelps took down the grandest of Olympic records Sunday in the final event at the pool, helping the Americans rally for a world-record win in the 400-meter medley relay. That victory, one more than Mark Spitz managed at the 1972 Munich Games, assured him a place in sports history and a legacy of, well, does he even need one? Wait, there's more. In his pursuit of Spitz, which actually began four years ago with six gold medals in Athens, Phelps became the winningest Olympian ever with 14 victories, five more than any other athlete. By AP Writer

Even though the Americans have never lost the medley relay at the Olympics, the latest gold was hardly a breeze. When Phelps dived into the water for the butterfly — the third of four legs — the Americans were third behind Japan and Australia. But Phelps, swimming the same distance and stroke that he used to win his seventh gold a day earlier, powered back to the front on his return lap, passing off to Jason Lezak with the Americans in front. Australia's Eamon Sullivan tried to chase down Lezak and appeared to be gaining as they came to the wall. But Lezak touched in 3 minutes, 29.34 seconds — the seventh world record of Phelps' remarkable run. Afterward, Phelps gathered his three mates in a group huddle, then hugged each one of them separately. He thanked them for their role in the last of his three relay wins. They congratulated him for his remarkable feat. "It was cool," backstroker Aaron Peirsol said. "We got to be a part of it." Another member of the relay team, breaststroker Brendan Hansen, was most

impressed by the way Phelps detached himself from all the hype once he got away from the pool. He'd set a world record in the morning, then go back to the village and act like nothing had happened. "I'd be like, 'Do you realize what you're doing?"' Hansen said. "And he'd be like, 'Man, the pizza is good todaym But deep down, Phelps was soaking it all in — the glory and the minutiae. He had all the medals hanging in his room. By the end of the games, Hansen quipped, they resembled a wind chime. As much as he relished the actual races, what he really seemed to treasure most were those behind-the-scenes moments. Unlike Spitz, who was viewed as aloof and even arrogant by his fellow swimmers, Phelps got along with all his teammates, even though they all knew he was in a league of his own. He hung out with them during his down time in the athletes' village, playing cards and the world-conquering game Risk. He made a point to engage the Olympic rookies he didn't know very well. He did what lots

of other 23-year-olds did — play hip-hop music and text his buddies. "I just wanted to make sure I took every single moment in and every single swim in, every single moment with my teammates, so I would remember them," Phelps said. "I don't want to forget anything that happened." No one else does, either. Home sounds pretty good to the 23-yearold Phelps, who has a strong relationship with his mother, Debbie, and two older sisters. Phelps' parents split when he was only 7, and the relationship with his father has long been strained, but the women in his life cheered him every step of the way in Beijing. After the eighth gold, Phelps climbed into stands to give all three of them a kiss. Debbie gave her boy a little extra hug, tears streaming down her face. "I just want to lay in my own bed for five minutes at least and just relax," Phelps said. "One of the things I'm really looking forward to is getting back to Baltimore."

Despite Beijing weather, American duo wins second consecutive gold medal

By AP Photographer Michael Phelps of the US, right, reaches out to touch the wall ahead of Australia's Andrew Lauterstein during his butterfly leg of the men's medley relay at the swimming competitions in the National Aquatics Center at the Beijing 2008 Olympics in Beijing, Sunday, Aug. 17, 2008.

BEIJING (AP) _ The Chinese and By AP Writer the wretched Beijing weather were no match for Misty May-Treanor and "Six Feet of Sunshine." May-Treanor and Kern Walsh won their second consecutive gold medal in beach volleyball Thursday, playing through a steady and sometimes driving rain to beat China in straight sets and extend their winning streak to 108 matches in a row "Ever since the ball dropped in Athens, we've wanted to repeat as Olympic champions," May-Treanor said. "No one's ever done it." No one's ever won 14 consecutive Olympic matches before, either, sweeping away their opponents in both Beijing and Athens without losing a single set. The Americans beat Wang Jie and Tian Jia 21-18, 21-18 on Thursday, playing through smog and swelter and a drenching gold medal game to confirm their dominance of the sport. "The rain makes it better. We felt like warriors out there," Walsh shouted afterward, unable to contain the California girl enthusiasm that earned her the nickname "Six Feet of Sunshine." "Athens was just pure excitement. The pressure of this situation is real, and it was heavy, and it was loud. And we

beat China at home, under crazy conditions." Walsh's bubbly smile couldn't part the clouds that drenched the Chaoyang Park venue for the bronzeand gold-medal matches. It was no day to be at the beach — not for Wang and Tian, and not for the fans who huddled under pastel ponchos and umbrellas that, on a day more appropriate for sun and sand, would be used as parasols., But the 12,200-seat venue was packed, the dancers in bikinis jiggled to rock music and the players pressed on without concern for the weather. The wet and heavy ball forced them to bumpset instead of doing it over their heads, and the sometimes driving rain made it difficult to look up to receive passes. "I dreamt about rain last night," Walsh said. "It could have been 500 degrees or 500 below, and we'd be happy." Earlier Thursday, in a matchup of the second-best teams from Brazil and China, Xue Chen and Zhang Xi won the host country's first beach volleyball medal, beating Talita and Renata 21-19, 21-17 for the bronze. Walsh put an early end to China's hopes for adding a gold when she quickhit May-Tremor's pass between Wang and Tian. The Americans dropped to their knees on the wet sand, hugging each other before shaking hands with

see GOLD, page 12

WOOS PIZZA MCI MI

Hiring Full & Part Time, Kitchen Staff, Servers and Hostless. 00 Flexible Schedules 00 Tenure Bonuses 00 Meal Discounts 00 Great Working Environment

Great Pizza, Great Job! Candidate must have Positive Attitude, Great Customer Service Skills, an outgoing personality and prior high volume experience. Apply between 2-5pm at the following locations. 6616 N. Western Ave. (OKC) 116 E. 5th Street (Edmond) 5501 Northwest Expressway (Warr Acres)

By AP Photographer United States' Misty May-Treanor, right, and teammate Kerri Walsh celebrate during the medal ceremony for women's beach volleyball at the Chaoyang Park Beach Volleyball Ground at the Beijing 2008 Olympics in Beijing, Thursday, Aug. 21, 2008. USA defeated China in the gold medal match, 21-18, 21-18. ,

SHORT OF CASH? Here's a Flash! We need a dog bather in the mornings. Apply at 2nd & Kelly in Edmond (Kelly Plaza Shopping Center)

BLUE RIBBON PET BOUTIQUE

Page 12 Tuesday, August 26, 2008

SPORTS GOLD Continued from page 11 won the host country's first beach volleyball medal, beating Talita and Renata 21-19, 21-17 for the bronze. Walsh put an early end to China's hopes for adding a gold when she quick-hit MayTreanor's pass between Wang and Tian. The Americans dropped to their knees on the wet sand, hugging each other

The Vista

before shaking hands with the officials and running to the stands to embrace their friends and families. They were still celebrating, wrapping themselves in U.S. flags, as organizers worked through the rain to set up the podium for the medal ceremony. Walsh bounced up and down while her name was announced in Chinese, waiting for the English translation before jumping onto the top level of the podium. "I still feel like a little girl," she said. "I'm so happy. I'm just

the happiest girl in the world." The Americans cruised through the two-year qualifying process in a year, giving Walsh a break this spring to recover from offseason shoulder surgery. Managing the pain with massages and a special tape that is said to increase blood flow, Walsh showed no signs of wear. The Americans scored three straight points to break a 17-17 tie in the first. China survived one set point before May-Treanor spiked one down the line for the winner. In the second, the Americans

turned -a 15-14 deficit into a 17-15 lead when Tian called a medical timeout. As she sat under the canopy that covers the bench, a trainer massaged her left arm before sending her back to the sand. It was 18-all when the Americans scored the last three points to win. "The American team is better than we are," Tian said. "They are more experienced and stronger. But we have made great strides for these Olympic Games. This is the best that we could do."

Need more a ntion? •

Ad l

vistaradimahooicord 405/914.5911

Sophomores lead vollyeball team in intrasquad By Ryan Croft Staff Writer

The Central Oklahoma Volleyball team prepared for its season opener with some intrasquad competition Saturday in its annual Bronze and Blue scrimmage. Sophomores Jessica Legako and Kristen Wilson led the Bronze team to a 25-18, 26-28, 25-15 victory over the Blue with 17 and 16 kills, respectively. The scrimmage was a culmination of months of intense training in preparation for UCO's season opener in Tampa, Fla. on August 29th. The Bronchos will face off against the Saint Leo University Lions in the opening round of the Tampa Classic. The Lions ended last season 24-14 and placed sixth in the Sunshine State Conference. Central Oklahoma finished last season Photo by Chris Albers 32-7 and advanced to the semifinals of the Sophomore Jessica Legako spikes the ball past her opponent at UCO Volleyball's Saturday NCAA Division II . afternoon scrimmage at Hamilton Field House.

Southwest Regional, but have since lost two key-starters to graduation. Head coach Jeff Boyland, who had previously voiced his concern about losing starters Mari Aroujo and Lade Allen, said he felt confident in his team's ability to play well this year. "Everybody has been in here practicing hard. We've got a lot of new girls and they're gelling really well and starting to feel comfortable with each other and that's the key." The team gained seven freshman and has four starters back from last year. Legako, a middle blocker originally from Lubbock, Texas, had 353 kills and led the Lonestar State Conference in blocks last year. Freshman Mary Wendell had 14 kills in this year's intrasquad scrimmage and is expected to be a major factor in the team's success this

Volleyball Schedule August - September EDMOND

2:00 p.m.

8/29/2008

Tampa, Fla.

11:00 a.m.

8/29/2008

Tampa, Fla.

5:30 p.m.

8/30/2008

Tampa, Fla.

12:30 p.m.

8/30/2008

Tampa, Fla.

8:00 p.m.

9/5/2008

Joplin, Mo.

1:00 p.m.

9/5/2008

Joplin, Mo.

7:00 p.m.

9/6/2008

Joplin, Mo.

10:00 a.m.

9/6/2008

Joplin, Mo.

1:00 p.m.

Oklahoma City, Okla.

7:00

8/23/2008

9/9/2008

Bronze-Blue Intrasquad

OlciehornMy_Vatemity

p.m.

/12/2008

Stephenville, Texas

,12:30 p.m.

9/12/2008

Stephenville, Texas

5:30 p.m.

9/13/2008

Stephenville, Texas

10:00 a.m.

9/13/2008

Stigenville, Texas

3:00 p.m.

9/18/2008

Wichita Falls, Texas

7:00 p.m.

Lawton, Okla.

2:00 p.m.

Wichita, Kan.

7:00 p.m.

EDMOND

7:00 p.m.

EDMOND

2:00 p.m.

Dallas, Texas

7:00 p.m.

10/3/2008

Topeka, Kan.

9:30 a.m.

10/3/2008

Topeka, Kan.

2:00 p.m.

10/4/2008

Topeka, Kan.

1:00 p.m.

10/4/2008

NiNt

7:00 p.m.

9/20/2008 9/23/2008 9/25/2008 9/27/2008 9/30/2008

retaing12113101YEADY Newman University

East Central University Southeastern Oklahoma State University Ogilmiptist University

10/9/2008

ligikkU2MfaLliONSAI

Kingsville, Texas

7:00 p.m.

10/11/2008

1411„ 1

Stephenville, Texas

2:00 p.m.

10/16/2008

West Tens ABM University Eastern New Mexico University pa ► gaitA State University atiONSAIEMAILUIVINSti Texas Woman's University Tens AMA University • Commerce Dallas Baptist University

EDMOND

7:00 p.m.

EDMOND

1:00 p.m.

San Angelo, Texas

7:00 p.m.

Abilene, Texas

7:00 p.m.

EDMOND

7:00 p.m.

EDMOND

7:00 p.m.

EDMOND

7:00 p.m.

Weatherford, Okla.

7:00 p.m.

10/18/2008 10/23/2008 10/25/2008 10/30/2008

11/1/2008 11/4/2008 11/6/2008

1 1 /Ag/2 0 0 8

Lone Star Conference Tournament

TBA

year. Kristen Wilson, a starter in the 20062007 season, is out indefinitely due to a back injury. Wilson also sat out last year due to an illness. "We're not going to talk about replacing [Araujo or Allen] or about rebuilding. That was last year's team... these girls are every bit as hungry," Boyland said. Junior Meaghan Wedburg ranked second in the league assists and iii' fourth in assists per game in 2007, earning second-team Lone Star Conference recognition. "I feel really comfortable with where we're headed," Boyland said. "This'll be a great group... they're ready." UCO will play their season opener in Tampa, Florida on August 29th. The team will play its first home game against East Central University October 25th.